Music Monthly - Feb 2003 Vol 20, No 2, issue #221 
Reality Jones may sound like a character from Lil' Abner but, in actuality they are a five piece band from Maryland. And no, they don't play bluegrass music with fiddles and banjos (although there is a banjo on the premises); rather, they play well-crafted pop-rock with healthy measures of guitar and organ. The first tune "Constance" is also the most poppish of the bunch. Written about a constant love for Constance (I couldn't resist!), the song reminds me of the power-pop years of 1979 and 1980. Fluid guitar and a snappy beat recall a hint of the Knack with vocals having a smidgen of Huey Lewis's feel, not that there's anything wrong with that! There's always room for a catchy song, no matter what the decade. The other cuts on the CD range from mid-tempo to jazzy beat. "Thank You" has wonderfully sarcastic lyrics about a man thanking his lover for leaving him and breaking his heart. Nice guitar work and punchy rhythm makes this cut one that I could see John Mellencamp doing. "Behind The Eyes Of Age" is a slower, almost jazzy, ode to one whose passing of time may have left her behind, but whose internal beauty and wisdom will never dim. Her experiences are something to be acclaimed rather than looked at and discarded. It's a lovely tribute to older folk and their life's lessons. Finally, "Johnny US" is a bit of a rocker with some funkiness attached. It's the story of a bad dude, perhaps in "The Sorpranos", who's capable of running down anyone who crosses him. However, one day, he may be on the receiving end instead and find out that he has no friends to turn to. Sinister guitar and a spoken interlude help bring the touch of menace required for this gangster song. The reality of Reality Jones is that this is a good band with great playing and strong songs in their repertoire. The Other Side exhibits their their talent with no country critters involved! Karen Leibowitz |
 Comments from a song review of "Constance" by an industry professional at MakeaStar.com Jan. 2002:  * "Musically the track flows well. Tempo, groove and chord changes are all solid. This is a well-crafted song that is both sincere and authentic." * "Tim has a strong, Authentic and very masculine voice reminiscent of Brian Adams." * "Very capable musicians with a good feel." * "This is a very well developed sound and is very appealing on a number of levels. The voice is strong and emotional. Players are all very capable and feel good together. I would think that you would have no problem getting airplay on any adult contemporary radio station. You’re a great VH1 candidate." * "Musicianship, an identifiable voice, and a strong song sense. I really like the band!" "Reviewed By: Open Bar" |
| Music Monthly - July 1999 Vol 16, No 7, issue #178
"The songs on "All You Need To Know" are basically catchy, Tim McFadden's vocals are sexy and appealing and the sound from the rest of the "Jones gang" is solid and mature." There's definitely plenty to like on this CD, from ballads to upbeat numbers that delve into lost love or innocence ("The Man Who Lost His Heart"), life's struggles ("House Of Need"), the search for answers in a relationship ("This Is All You Get"), and life's contrasts (Doin' The Walk). Mary Guiden |
| Breakthrough Connections - The open minded web site (Reviewed by "Rock & Roll" Dave 3/29/99)  Reality Jones is a Baltimore based original pop/rock band fronted by singer/songwriter Tim McFadden who adds acoustic guitar and harmonica also. Tom Russell adds the lead guitar. Former Fire Monkey members, Tim Fowler on bass guitar and vocals, and Jon Peck on drums round out the band. Guest appearances by Mookie Siegel on Hammond Organ and keyboards and Paul Buono on electric/acoustic guitars, vocals and keyboard. Tim McFadden sings with soul and feeling with his powerful rough voice. The CD contains a variety of music from the moderate pop of "Man Who Lost His Heart" to the choppy rhythm of "House of Need". "I Need Someone" is one of my favorites, a light rock tune with a nice hook in the background vocals. The guitar work on the CD is creative and versatile. Good job Tom! "Break the Silence" is another favorite. Good pulse and vocal phrasing. One of the heavier songs on the CD. "Will Work for Food" is the socially-conscience song of the CD. The music matches the concept. "Doin' the Walk", kind of funky with great keyboards that shoot in and out of the melody. "This Is All You Get" has good lyrics and a nice harmonica part that gives it a laid back earthly feel. Overall this is a very good CD. The musicians are accomplished and work well together in the presentation. "Rock & Roll Dave" |
